Zanjan: A Captivating Experience in 3 Days

  • Day 1: Explore Zanjan City
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    Begin your adventure in Zanjan with a visit to the Zanjan Bazaar. This maze of narrow alleys is a lively market where traditional crafts, spices, and sweets can be found. Afterward, head to the Jameh Mosque of Zanjan which houses intricate tilework and the oldest wooden pulpit in Iran. End your day at the stunning Saltmen Museum where exhibits display well-preserved ancient salt-miners discovered in the Zanjan salt mines.

  • Day 2: A Journey Through Time
    2 hours (70 miles) from Zanjan city

    Take a day trip to captivating Takht-e Soleiman, a UNESCO World Heritage site with traces of Sassanian and Ilkhanid architecture. Explore the remnants of a fire temple or visit the ancient lake in the crater, Soleymanieh Lake.

  • Day 3: Marvel at Natural Wonders
    2.5 hours (77 miles) from Zanjan city

    Embark on a scenic drive to experience the volcanic Hyrcanian Forests known for their breathtaking views and Iran’s second-largest waterfall, Rudkhan Castle. Hike through the dense forests or relax by the waterfall.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Zanjan Bazaar (2 hours, free)
  • Jameh Mosque of Zanjan (1 hour, free)
  • Saltmen Museum (2 hours, 20,000 Rials)
  • Takht-e Soleiman (6 hours, 500,000 Rials)
  • Hyrcanian Forests and Rudkhan Castle (10 hours, 800,000 Rials)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 1,320,000 Rials

Transportation

Travelers in Zanjan can take shared taxis or buses to most destinations within the city. For longer distances, private taxis are recommended, although they can be more expensive. Renting a car is also an option. A one-way trip from Zanjan to Takht-e Soleiman is roughly 3,000,000 Rials by taxi and from Zanjan to Hyrcanian Forests is 4,000,000 Rials.

Useful tips

If time is limited, skip the Hyrcanian Forests and Rudkhan Castle excursion. An alternative option is to visit Katalekhor Cave and the Shah-Abbasi Caravanserai within Zanjan city limits. For an extended stay, explore more of the countryside north of Zanjan, where you can find unique natural wonders and rural experiences.

Airports

The Zanjan International Airport (JWN) is located 15 miles from the city center, serving domestic flights to and from various cities in Iran. Most international travelers fly into Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKIA), which is 175 miles from Zanjan.

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